Philosophy of Mind

Subject 161-215 (2008)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008.Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.500
Level: Undergraduate
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

Semester 2, - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable

*

Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: Two 1-hour lectures and a 1-hour tutorial per day for 10 days
Total Time Commitment: *
Prerequisites: At least one single-semester first-year philosophy subject, or permission from the Head of School or the subject coordinator.
Corequisites: *
Recommended Background Knowledge: *
Non Allowed Subjects: *
Core Participation Requirements: *

Coordinator

Dr Allen Hanzen
Subject Overview:

This subject examines the major theories contemporary philosophers have advanced to explain the nature of the human mind. It introduces students to the problems that theories of the mind attempt to solve, to the ways in which these theories attempt a solution, and to the problems these attempts at solution encounter. Specifically, the subject will address the theories of dualism, epiphenomenalism, behaviourism, physicalism, functionalism, and eliminativism. Students should develop an understanding of these theories, an appreciation of what motivates them, and of their problems.

Assessment: A written assignment of 2000 words 50% (due mid-semester), a 2-hour closed-book written examination 47% (due at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 3%.
Prescribed Texts: Prescribed Texts:A subject reader will be available from the Bookroom at the beginning of semester
Breadth Options: This subject is a level 2 or level 3 subject and is not available to new generation degree students as a breadth option in 2008.
This subject or an equivalent will be available as breadth in the future.
Breadth subjects are currently being developed and these existing subject details can be used as guide to the type of options that might be available.
2009 subjects to be offered as breadth will be finalised before re-enrolment for 2009 starts in early October.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

  • acquire the skill to understand new contributions to the field as they emerge;

  • acquire the ability to read complex theoretical texts from a critical perspective;

  • develop skills pertinent to assessing divergent readings of such texts.
Notes:

Previously available as The Nature of Mind. Students who have completed The Nature of Mind are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Related Course(s): Bachelor of Arts
Diploma in Arts (Philosophy)
Diploma in Arts (Philosophy)
Graduate Certificate in Arts (Philosophy)
Graduate Diploma in Arts (Philosophy)

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